A manual will save you big bucks! Some procedures aren't obvious, and MB seems to have more than the normal amount of "hidden" fasteners (bolts behind the balancer, recessed bolts on covers, etc) that will drive you nuts if you don't know they are there.

In good shape, these cars are a nearly perfect driving experience (although the 420 might be a bit low on power for some).

You should have a nearly silent, very supple ride with excellent handling (watch the speedo!!!). The car should track dead straight at 90 on the interstate with your hands off the wheel, should be no loud thumps or groans on bumps. Engine should be leak free, no oil useage between changes (if you get a puff of blue smoke on startup with a quart in 1500 miles usage of oil, you need valve guide seals), etc.

Check the coolant -- if green, you need to do a complete drain and flush pronto, use ONLY MB or Zerez G-05 coolant, not Dexcool or green antifreeze, else the radiator will crud up terribly and the hoses will go to perdition fast. No phosphates AT ALL in the coolant, it clogs the rad...

You will love this car!

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!